Eisenkot, Likud clash over BoP framework for Hamas disarmament, IDF withdrawal from Gaza

A dispute has emerged between Gadi Eisenkot and the Likud party regarding the Board of Peace's (BoP) framework for implementing the US peace plan in Gaza. Eisenkot, head of the Yashar Party, criticized the framework on Friday, stating it would "leaving Hamas in power" and enable rearmament, which he believes led to the October 7, 2023, massacre. He asserted, "The State of Israel must not accept a reality in which Hamas survives, rearms, and waits for the opportunity to carry out the next massacre!"

• The Likud party, in response, accused Eisenkot of "capitulating" to Hamas by demanding an IDF withdrawal from Gaza upon his resignation from the Knesset in 2025, calling his conduct "embarrassing."
• Former prime minister Naftali Bennett also weighed in, claiming Qatar has "seized command" in Gaza and that Hamas is "growing stronger rapidly." He insisted Hamas must disarm before any IDF withdrawal.
• National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir rejected the BoP agreement, stating it is "not acceptable to Israel" and that a ceasefire would allow Hamas to regroup.
• A diplomatic source indicated that the IDF would not withdraw from Gaza until Hamas is fully disarmed, with the BoP plan requiring Hamas to surrender all weaponry for storage and dismantling.